Inside the Negotiations as CBS and Sony Battled Over ‘SWAT’
The television show, “SWAT,” has been creating a buzz for its high-octane action sequences, thrilling storyline, and talented cast. However, little did the viewers know about the behind-the-scenes strife that took place between CBS and Sony during negotiations for the show. This article takes an in-depth look at the negotiations that took place, shedding light on the decision-making process that ultimately led to the creation of this successful show.
The Negotiations Begin
The negotiations between CBS and Sony began in 2015 when CBS expressed interest in reviving the popular police drama. Sony Pictures Television, which owned the rights to the original show, was happy to oblige. CBS chose Shawn Ryan, known for his work on “The Shield” and “The Chicago Code,” to develop the new series.
Ryan was excited to bring the show to life, but he had his own vision for how the show should be structured. He suggested a serialized narrative that would take a deep dive into contemporary law enforcement issues. However, CBS executives felt that the show should retain the episodic format of the original series.
Both parties struggled to find common ground, and negotiations stalled. It was only through the intervention of CBS’s top brass that a deal was finally struck.
The Partnership
After months of negotiations, CBS and Sony agreed to collaborate on the new show. Ryan was tasked with creating the showrunner’s bible and pilot script, which the network had to approve before moving forward with production. The show followed a group of LA SWAT officers who deal with high-pressure criminal situations and public relations issues.
However, the agreement was not without its challenges. One of the biggest points of contention was the casting of Shemar Moore as the lead. Sony favored casting an unknown, but CBS wanted a recognizable face to pull in viewers. Eventually, CBS won out, and Moore was cast in the lead role.
The Show’s Success
Since its premiere in November of 2017, “SWAT” has enjoyed a successful run. The show has received critical acclaim, with particular praise for its well-choreographed action sequences and nuanced portrayal of contemporary policing issues.
The show has also performed well in the ratings, with an average of 6.3 million viewers per episode. CBS has since renewed the show for five seasons, cementing its place in the network’s prime-time lineup.
In Conclusion
Negotiations between CBS and Sony were no easy feat, as both sides had their own ideas and visions for the creation of the new “SWAT” series. However, the two parties ultimately came together to create a show that has resonated with audiences and captivated viewers.
The behind-the-scenes tensions and disagreements are just as thrilling as the show’s high-action sequences. Ultimately, it is a testament to the power of collaboration and the importance of persistence when working to bring a creative vision to life.